In the Summer of 1953 (poem) by Jon Michael Willey on AuthorsDen

In the Summer of 1953
by Jon Michael Willey → (All Poetry by Jon Michael Willey)
Rated "G" by the Author.

Save

In memory of a childhood friend.
Summer's rein is ebbing in 1953 my childhood friend and I gather up the chaff of straw the grit of Sussex County soil upon our sweaty toiling bodies an aging farm tractor chugs at creep speed no one manning the controls towing a farm wagon his father riding thereon we struggle and heave to toss the bails of straw harvested, bailed and laying in the field to his father's waiting hands for stacking upon the wagon at eleven,thought we both this day's hard work the cruelest of jokes I the boy from town he the farmer's son where were we to find this day's joy? thirty acres awaited us certainly,eternity could not be longer thought we both ah,the pleasures of the simple life 'twas toil,toil and gritty soil the compensation was just? an opportunity tomorrow, to finish what today we could not muster the strength to complete the levity of that moment eluded me 'til my middle ages in my memories this time of ebbing summer, 1953 remains, precious indeed

Reviewed by Ronald Hull

Reviewed on November 14, 2008

Yes, I remember 80 pound bales, tied with twine that cut into fingers until they were raw with blisters to match the sunburned back. Driving my grandfather's old McCormick 10-20, spouting black smoke until its rods banging the block came right through the side, ending the ancient tractor's life and our day's work. At least it wasn't my fault. Against my protests as the rod knocked louder, my uncle told me to keep driving while he loaded bales, trying to get the hay in before another rain would soak them.

Ron

Reviewed by Karen Palumbo

Reviewed on November 13, 2008

Funny as to what we see as we grow older and all the truly wonderful times we just innocently took for granted, thinking it would go on forever. Thanks for the shared memories when life was simple...

Be always safe,
Karen

Reviewed by Abdi-Noor Mohamed (Eagle Of Hope)

Great write my friend. Beautiful memories

Reviewed by Christine Alwin

ahhh wonderful visuals...I loved visiting Frank's farm in Sobieski, MN when I was young...memories seeded in my head...
Love,Christine

Reviewed by John Flanagan

Jon,
Joy recollected in the tranquillity of more mature years, an excellent look back and recall filled with precious detail and a strong voice in support of the dignity of honest labour.
John

Reviewed by Gene Williamson

What a wonderful step back in time, Jon. You write it so well.
Even with all the labor, I envy your friend of the summer of
1953. How I would have loved to work side by side with my father,
doing anything. Thank you for this, my friend. -gene.

Reviewed by Karla Dorman, The StormSpinner

I love the imagery you paint on my eyes, Jon; the scenes unfold as if I were turning the pages of life. Well done.

(((HUGS))) and love, Karla.

Reviewed by Gerard Gauthier (Reader)

�'twas toil,toil and gritty soil� this line is really something...its so musical, it calls attention to itself.
Maybe a good starting point for J & J...great read Jon

Reviewed by Chantilly Lace (Reader)

Oh my,so very touching..what a wonderful man you are with such a loving heart..I do admire you so much sweet Jon...Hugs,much love too you

Reviewed by Ron (sketchman) Axelson (Reader)

enjoyed your tale here....
That's how I move these days, at creep speed..
Take life easy Jon

Reviewed by Bonnie May

Touching and wonderful memories that touch ones heart. We not always know which memories we'll cherish when they're happening but what joy they bring in later years. Thank you for sharing Jon. Love, Bonnie